Portuguese Passport, Visa, and ID Photos
Get the correct size and layout for your Portuguese identity documents using simple steps. You can prepare your own passport or ID photos at home.
Documents Covered and Photo Sizes
This page helps you prepare photos for several official Portuguese documents. These include the Portuguese passport[1], the national ID card[2], the driving licence[3], and the international driving permit[4].
You can also format photos for a residence permit[5], a Schengen visitor visa[6], and a recreational boating card[7]. Most of these documents share a common size of 35x45 mm[1][2][3][4][5][6], while the boating card requires a specific 20x25 mm size[7].
For most of these documents, the official head height is not set by the governing authorities[1][2][3][4][5][6]. This gives you some flexibility when cropping your image as long as your face remains centered, upright, and clearly visible.
Printed Versus Digital Submissions
Different Portuguese application types have strict rules about how you submit your photo. Passports, national ID cards, driving licences, and international driving permits require printed photo submissions[1][2][3][4].
Schengen visitor visa applications and recreational boating card applications accept both printed and digital formats[6][7]. Check the instructions for your specific residence permit application before submitting your photo.
Check the instructions from the office handling your application to confirm how to submit your photo.
Taking Your Photo at Home
You do not need an expensive camera to take a good application photo. Face a bright window to get even natural lighting on your face without harsh shadows behind you.
Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of holding the camera yourself. Keep the camera at your exact eye level, about one to one and a half meters away from your face to avoid distortion.
You can then use the tool above to crop your image to the exact dimensions needed for your specific Portuguese application.
Background and Lighting Rules
A plain, light-colored background with no patterns or objects can help keep your face clear in the photo.
Check for shadows on the background or across your face before you finish taking the picture. Standing a short distance away from the wall helps prevent unwanted shadows from forming behind your head.
Use even lighting so your facial features are clear.
Pose, Expression, and Appearance
Keep a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed and your eyes looking straight into the camera lens. Do not smile, frown, or tilt your head in any direction.
Your eyes must be fully open and clearly visible to anyone reviewing your application. Remove hats, caps, and dark glasses that obscure your eyes or face.
If you wear prescription eyeglasses, make sure the frames do not cover your eyes and that there is no glare on the lenses.
Formatting Your Print Sheet
After cropping your photo, you can arrange copies on a 4×6-inch sheet and print it at a photo kiosk.
You can use the tool above to create this print layout directly in your web browser. Your photo never leaves your device, keeping your personal images private and secure while you prepare your paperwork.
Frequently asked questions
What size photo do I need for a Portuguese passport?
The common size used for a Portuguese passport photo is 35x45 mm[1].
Can I use a digital photo for my residence permit?
Yes, Portuguese residence permit applications accept both printed and digital photo submissions[5].
Is there an official head height requirement?
Where can I print my photo sheet?
You can print your prepared 4x6-inch photo sheet at any standard photo printing kiosk.
What background color should I use for my photo?
You should use a plain, light-colored background with no patterns or shadows.